Summary

Two new reports from the National Research Council say that cutting greenhouse gas emissions remains essential to confront climate change but that research into controversial climate intervention strategies should be supported by the federal government. Two types of such research are included: carbon dioxide reduction and albedo modification. Carbon dioxide removal involves drawing down atmospheric carbon using techniques including carbon-sucking machines. Albedo modification involves reflecting solar energy into space to directly cool the planet; proposed approaches include spraying particles in the stratosphere or altering low clouds. Scientists hope the reports will jump-start climate intervention research, which has been stymied by lack of federal funding.